Planned Parenthood sues to block Missouri’s request for abortion records

Planned Parenthood said Missouri’s office of the attorney general is trying to get medical records on patients who have had abortions in the past, specifically at clinics in Kansas City and St. Louis. Those clinics have turned to the courts in an attempt to block the request. 

The nonprofit patient care group has filed a lawsuit, arguing the subpoenas violate patient privacy laws, including a new amendment to the state constitution that aims to protect abortion rights up to the 24th week of pregnancy, with additional protections based on the health and life of the fetus and mother. 

However, that amendment, passed by voters, could be outdone by a new ballot measure appearing in November that would effectively ban all abortions in the state. The wording of that proposal has already been approved and upheld by courts in the state—though it has not been heard in front of Missouri’s Supreme Court. 

Although abortion is still partially protected by law, the state attorney general’s office appears to be preparing for the ban by surveilling citizens, something Planned Parenthood is attempting to block with an injunction.

“Despite the Missouri attorney general’s blatant attempts to overturn the will of the people, all patients expect and have the right for their medical records to be private,” the clinics wrote in a statement. “Politicians have no place in the exam room with patients and their medical providers.”

The Associated Press has details on the specifics, writing that the Missouri attorney general’s office has subpoenaed two employees of the Kansas City Planned Parenthood, along with an affiliated physician. Additionally, two members of the board of directors for the St. Louis-area Planned Parenthood have been targeted. 

The request demands patient records, reports on adverse events, communications between pregnant women and providers, and additional records on services offered and delivered at the locations. According to the outlet, this includes compliance records in addition to details on equipment maintenance. 

In its response to the court, Attorney General Catherine Hanaway’s office said it is interested in protecting patient health, writing that the "purpose of litigation is to 'ascertain the truth.’” Her office claimed its only seeking to ensure the clinics are complying with state laws. 

Planned Parenthood contends that the request is too broad and puts patient privacy at risk. It's asking the court to narrow the scope of the subpoenas.  

For more, read the Associated Press’ full coverage at the link below.